Although there are positive examples that don't get the attention they deserve, the unfortunate truth is that from the professional sports leagues on down to little league, one doesn't have to look, or listen, long before poor sportsmanship is being displayed on the field and, regrettably, by fans...of all ages! It is becoming more and more apparent that the days of good sportsmanship being the 'norm' are fading fast in the rear view mirror. Admitting that this is in fact a problem that could have damaging effects on our children and then making a decision to make a difference is a great place to start!
'Sportsmanship Matters America' wants to be clear from the onset that one display of poor sportsmanship, though quite possibly indefensible, is not an occasion to condemn an individual. Hopefully, when a professional athlete, a little leaguer, or a fan falls short of good sportsmanship standards they will be eager to offer the appropriate apologies and be willing to make the necessary changes to their behavior so that in the future they will not be a "repeat offender".
It is crucial for parents, at the appropriate time, to let coaches know that good sportsmanship is a priority to you and that you want to be informed if your child displays poor sportsmanship. Then, if your child's coach approaches you don't react defensively. Rather, commend the coach for coming to you with this potentially "awkward information". In addition, support coaches, league officials, athletic directors, etc. when they make decisions to discipline poor sportsmanship as opposed to the "win at all cost" approach.
Be on the lookout for "teachable moments" to discuss conduct that, win or lose, is appropriate and not acceptable for athletes, coaches, and fans. Hopefully, the T-shirts offered by 'Sportsmanship Matters America' will help to not only initiate this discussion, but, to keep it going.
It's worth stating, no matter how obvious, that kids are much more willing to do what we say if they see us conducting ourselves in like manner. As legendary Notre Dame football coach, Knute Rockne once said, "One man practicing good sportsmanship is far better than 50 others preaching it."
If it appears that 'The ABC's of Sportsmanship™' could have positive applications to life in general, you're correct! This shouldn't be surprising as there are many similarities between sports and life. Just think of it...teamwork, cooperation, learning, hard work, practice, courage, and leadership are just a few of the life skills that are developed while participating in sports.
Want a practical example of these 'ABC's' having a positive influence in our lives? An increased awareness of any worthwhile endeavor, including identifying potential solutions to any problems, is a prudent approach well-worth developing early in life. -- Learning to bounce-back and sincerely take the necessary steps following an inappropriate action is a character trait that will yield favorable results from the field...to the classroom...to the boardroom. -- Identifying the "coaches" in our life to listen to and to support teaches us humility and how to be encouraging of others. It has been said that only after one is willing to earnestly follow and learn from others will one then truly be worthy of leading others. -- Developing discussion skills will be an asset in communicating with parents and other family members, friends, teachers, and eventual co-workers, etc. -- When one demonstrates an example of what they say by what they do, they earn respect from all and gain a good reputation.
